Leaving the Noise Behind: The Drive to Chopta
Chopta Chandrashila Trek From Delhi : There’s something about leaving a city like Delhi on a Friday night that feels like peeling away layers of stress. As I packed my bag and zipped it shut, I wasn’t just prepping for a trip—I was making space in my mind. My destination? A tiny patch of green heaven called Chopta.
Our journey began before dawn. The roads, still half-asleep, led us out of the city’s constant honking into the early whispers of Uttarakhand’s hills. With a carefully chosen Chopta tour package from Delhi, we didn’t have to worry much about stops or schedules. We just followed the winding road.
As we crossed Rishikesh and left the chaos behind, the air felt different—cooler, calmer. Tea stalls greeted us at every turn, offering more than just chai: they offered pause. It’s funny how even the simplest things—sipping hot tea with mist rolling down a pine-covered hill—feel extraordinary when you’re no longer rushed.
It took us around 10–11 hours to reach Chopta by road. The last stretch, narrow and curving, was the kind that slows you down whether you like it or not. But with each bend, the world seemed to soften. The phone signal disappeared, but somehow, we felt more connected—to the moment, to the hills, to each other.
This wasn’t just a road trip. It was a gentle unraveling. Delhi faded in the rearview mirror, and something else took its place—a growing stillness that would later make Chopta more than just a place on a map. It would become the beginning of something I didn’t know I needed.
Itinerary For Chopta Tour Package
DAY 0: Delhi to Rishikesh to Sari Village
- Journey Start Time: Depart from Botanical Garden Metro Station at 10:00 PM.
- Begin your overnight journey towards Sari Village via Rishikesh.
- Stop at Devprayag: Witness the confluence of the Bhagirathi and Alaknanda rivers during the journey.
DAY 1: Sari Village to Deoriatal
- Arrival at Sari Village: Check in to your homestay and freshen up.
- Trek to Deoriatal: Start your trek (2 . 5 km, approx. 1.5-2 hours).
- Enjoy Deoriatal: Relax and take in the serene views of the lake.
- Return to Sari Village: Returning to your starting point and enjoy the evening.
DAY 2: Sari Village to Tungnath & Chandrashila
- Breakfast: Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your homestay.
- Drive to Chopta: About 1 hour from Sari Village.
- Trek to Tungnath Temple: 3.5 km trek.
- Summit Chandrashila: An additional 1.5 km from Tungnath.
- Return to Chopta/Sari: After completing your treks, head back for an overnight stay at Chopta camps.
DAY 3: Chopta to Delhi
- Breakfast: Have an early breakfast at your camp in Chopta.
- Early Morning Departure: Leave Chopta early in the morning.
- Visit Dhari Devi Temple: Stop on your way back.
- Return to Delhi: A long drive of approximately 10-12 hours.
First Glimpse: Arriving in the Land of Peace and Pines
The moment we stepped out of the car in Chopta, the world felt different. It wasn’t just the cooler temperature or the cleaner air—it was the silence. A kind of quiet that wrapped around us like a warm shawl. Tall pines stood like guardians, mist drifting between their trunks. It felt sacred, like nature had pressed pause just for us.
We had chosen a Chopta Tungnath trek from Delhi as part of our package, so our stay was already sorted—a simple, wooden lodge overlooking a sweeping valley. No luxury, just basic comforts and the kind of view that makes your heart slow down.
Chopta isn’t loud. It doesn’t try to impress. But that’s what makes it unforgettable. The first breath you take here feels different—fresher, deeper, almost like your lungs had been waiting for it. And when you step onto the small trails behind your stay, every footstep crunches softly, mixing with birdcalls and distant rustling leaves.
Our guide shared how Chopta remains less commercial, even during the trekking season. It’s part of what makes it so appealing to travelers who crave peace over crowds. There’s no rush here. Even time seems to stroll.
We spent that evening just sitting outside, watching clouds curl and uncurl around the hilltops. The stars came early and stayed bright. And in that moment, with only the sound of crickets and the smell of pine in the air, we realized—we hadn’t just arrived at a new destination. We had arrived at a new state of mind.
Where the Climb Begins: Starting the Tungnath Temple Trek
The morning air in Chopta was crisp and carried the earthy scent of moss and pine. This was the day we had been waiting for the Tungnath Temple Trek. With our boots laced and water bottles filled, we took our first step onto the trail.
The trek starts gently, but soon the trail begins to ascend, wrapping itself around the forested mountain slopes. It wasn’t just a physical climb—it was a quiet journey inward. We crossed meadows with wildflowers, caught glimpses of Himalayan peaks, and found peace in the rhythm of our steps.
Tungnath Temple, the highest Shiva temple in the world, sits at an altitude of over 3,600 meters. The closer we got, the more the surroundings hushed, almost as if nature itself was paying respect. When the temple finally came into view, with its stone walls and prayer flags fluttering, we stood in silence. No words felt right in that moment.
We offered our prayers, but the experience felt much larger than religion. It was about humility, awe, and being a small part of something eternal. The Tungnath temple trek wasn’t just a hike it was a quiet revelation.
Summit of Stillness: Reaching Chandrashila Top
After resting at Tungnath, we gathered our energy for the final stretch—the climb to Chandrashila Summit. This part of the trail, though only about 1.5 km longer, feels steeper and more raw. The wind grew colder, and the clouds danced beside us as we hiked higher.
Reaching the top was like walking into a dream. The sky opened wide. Peaks like Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Chaukhamba stood proud in the distance. The view was overwhelming—360 degrees of untouched Himalayan majesty. The sun cast a golden light across the valley, and for a few minutes, no one spoke. We just stood there, in awe.
The Chandrashila Summit Trek had been on my list for years, but no photograph or travel vlog could prepare me for how it felt to stand up there. It wasn’t just the altitude that took my breath away—it was the stillness. A silence so complete it echoed.
That moment of stillness, of being present, made every step worth it. And as we started our descent, we knew something inside us had shifted.
A Rainy Day in Paradise: Chopta During the Monsoon
When we returned to Chopta after the trek, the sky had changed. Grey clouds gathered low and heavy, and a fine mist began to rise from the valley below. The monsoon had arrived, and with it, a completely different side of Chopta unfolded.
Pine trees shimmered with rain, their bark darker and richer. The trails, freshly soaked, smelled of earth and adventure. Flowers that had stayed tucked away during the dry days now bloomed boldly, painting the meadows in purples and reds. Rainwater gathered in tiny puddles, mirroring the sky.
It wasn’t just about the beauty—it was about the feeling. There was a softness to everything. A gentler rhythm. Even the birds sang slower songs. While the rain did pause some of our plans, we didn’t mind. We spent the hours sipping hot chai, wrapped in blankets, watching the fog move like whispers through the trees.
The monsoon made Chopta feel more alive, more personal. And for travelers choosing Chopta tour packages during the rainy season, this quiet magic is the biggest reward.
Stories in the Sky: A Night Under Chopta’s Stars
That night in Chopta, after the rain had passed, the clouds pulled away like curtains on a stage. And what they revealed above us felt unreal. A sky so packed with stars, it looked like someone had tossed glitter across black velvet.
We lay back on the damp grass, still warm from the bonfire, and just stared up. No photos. No phones. Just stories shared in whispers and that never-ending sky. It was the kind of night where silence feels like a conversation with the universe.
The quiet was never empty here. It was full of everything—thoughts, gratitude, dreams. I realized that in Chopta, even doing nothing felt meaningful.
Exploring the Hidden Trails and Forest Whispers
The next morning, instead of following the usual route, we asked our local host to show us a hidden trail he used as a child. We wandered into a less-trodden part of the forest, where sunlight filtered through mossy branches and bird calls echoed like ancient songs.
Here, the path wasn’t marked on any map. It curved past old shepherd huts, crossed cold mountain streams, and opened up to secret meadows where wild horses grazed. It was raw, untouched, and absolutely magical.
Walking slowly, we felt part of something older than time. The forest felt alive—as if it remembered every step we took. We didn’t speak much. Nature had already said it all.
Local Flavors and Warmth: Food and Hospitality in Chopta
If there’s one thing that adds soul to the mountains, it’s the food—and the people who serve it with love. In Chopta, meals are often simple but deeply comforting. Hot rajma-chawal, aloo-puri, and freshly made pakoras were our staples. What stood out wasn’t just the taste, but the warmth of those who prepared them.
Every meal was an experience. We sat around wooden tables with fellow travelers, sipping tea and exchanging stories. The locals treated us like guests in their own homes. Evenings were often filled with laughter, the crackling sound of a fire, and the aroma of local herbs used in cooking.
Staying in local lodges and camps included in our Chopta tour package gave us a chance to connect with the community. They shared not just food, but also legends about the mountains, weather patterns, and tips for the next day’s trek.
The flavors of Chopta were simple, yes—but they stayed with us. Because here, food isn’t just about filling your stomach. It’s about filling your heart.
A Farewell Hug from the Hills: Leaving Chopta Changed
As the final morning in Chopta arrived, everything felt a little slower. We stood on the balcony of our wooden cottage, sipping tea while watching the valley wake up. Mist clung to the treetops, birds called softly in the distance, and somewhere nearby, a bell from a small shrine rang out.
Packing our bags this time wasn’t just about clothes and souvenirs—it was about collecting memories. The crisp morning air, the scent of deodar, the laughter over shared meals, and the stillness at Chandrashila Summit—all of it felt stitched into the fabric of our hearts now.
Our return journey on the Chopta tour package from Delhi was quiet. Not because we were tired, but because we were full. Full of stories. Full of peace. Full of something that cities can’t quite offer.
As we crossed the final bend, watching the pines fade behind us, I whispered a promise to return. Because once you’ve heard the mountains call your name, you never really leave them behind.Explore scenic trails and peaceful vibes with the best Chopta tour packages.
Reflections That Stay: Chopta in My Heart
Even after returning to the city’s fast pace, something about Chopta stayed with me. It wasn’t just the towering peaks or the silent forests—it was the way everything made me feel. Present. Alive. Connected. Every time I close my eyes, I can still sense the crisp air at Chandrashila, hear the faint echo of temple bells at Tungnath, and see the morning mist curl through pine-laced slopes. The memory of the vibrant green meadows—glistening from the monsoon rain—and the profound silence that only the high Himalayas can offer, lingers like a tender whisper in the mind.
This wasn’t just a trek. It was a pause. A reset. A quiet reminder that sometimes, the best journeys don’t take us further away—they bring us home to ourselves. The effort it took to climb, the unexpected delight of a sunbeam piercing rainclouds, the comfort of a steaming cup of chai in a humble mountain dhaba—each moment stitched together into a feeling I can only describe as peace. Chopta doesn’t try to impress you. It simply lets you be. And in that offering, something inside begins to heal.
Here, time slows. The heart listens. The soul breathes.
And maybe that’s the real magic of Chopta tour packages—they aren’t just trips. They’re experiences that stay with you. The sacred stillness of Tungnath Temple, the awe-inspiring views from Chandrashila summit, and the unfiltered charm of mountain life—all come together to leave you lighter, calmer, more aware.
Whether it’s your first mountain escape or one of many, Chopta welcomes you softly. Not with noise or neon lights, but with mist-draped mornings, pine-scented paths, and the quiet reassurance that here, you’re allowed to just exist. If you’re looking to unplug from the chaos and reconnect—with nature, with yourself—take the leap. Book a Chopta tour package and let these sacred hills work their quiet magic.
And just when I thought the journey had given me everything, I made one last stop—Dhari Devi.
Set along the banks of the roaring Alaknanda River, the shrine of Dhari Devi felt like a final blessing. There’s something deeply moving about this place—the powerful goddess guarding the region, the rhythmic chants echoing off the rocks, the sense of being watched over. It was the perfect closure to an unforgettable journey. I stood there, eyes closed, wind brushing past like a whisper from the hills I had just left behind. One more prayer. One more thank you.
Because in the end, journeys like this aren’t about reaching the peak—they’re about the peace you carry back with you.
FAQs For Chopta
1. What is the best time to visit Chopta?
The best time to visit Chopta is from April to June and September to November. Monsoon brings lush greenery, while winter offers snowfall.
2. How can I reach Chopta from Delhi?
You can reach Chopta from Delhi via road by car or bus, or take a train to Haridwar/Rishikesh followed by a taxi. It’s around 360 km.
3. Is the Chopta Chandrashila trek difficult?
It’s a moderate trek, suitable for beginners with average fitness levels. Proper footwear and acclimatization help.
4. How long does it take to complete the Chopta Tungnath and Chandrashila trek?
It takes around 4–6 hours to complete the trek depending on pace and weather.
5. What should I pack for the Chopta Tungnath trek?
Warm layers, trekking shoes, rain gear (during monsoon), torch, water bottle, and basic medical supplies.
6. Are there any Chopta tour packages from Delhi available?
Yes, many travel agencies offer Chopta tour packages from Delhi that include transport, stay, and guided treks.
7. Can I visit Chopta during the monsoon season?
Yes, Chopta is lush and scenic during monsoon but be cautious of slippery trails and road conditions.
8. Is it safe to travel to Chopta alone?
Yes, solo travel is safe. However, always inform someone of your route and avoid trekking after dark.
9. What is the altitude of Chandrashila Summit?
Chandrashila is located at around 4,000 meters above sea level.
10. Are accommodations available near the Tungnath trek base?
Yes, you can find budget lodges, homestays, and camps in Chopta offering basic but comfortable options.
11. What’s special about the Tungnath Temple trek?
It’s the highest Shiva temple in the world and part of the Panch Kedar. The trek also offers stunning views.
12. Are there group tours available for Chopta?
Yes, many companies offer group-based Chopta tour packages, which are great for budget and social travelers.
13. Can I book a Chopta Chandrashila trek from Delhi?
Absolutely. Many operators provide all-inclusive Chopta Chandrashila trek from Delhi options.
14. Is camping allowed in Chopta?
Yes, there are several campsites offering scenic views, meals, and activities as part of camping packages.
15. What are the highlights of the Chopta Chandrashila trek?
Tungnath Temple, Chandrashila peak, Rhododendron forests, meadows, and panoramic Himalayan views.
16. Does the Chopta tour package include meals?
Most tour packages include vegetarian meals, especially in homestays and campsites.
17. How cold does it get in Chopta?
In winter, temperatures can drop below zero. Even in summer, nights are cool (around 5–10°C).
18. Can couples visit Chopta for a romantic getaway?
Yes, Chopta is peaceful and ideal for couples seeking solitude and natural beauty.
19. Is there internet or mobile connectivity in Chopta?
Connectivity is limited. Some areas may get signal (mostly BSNL/Jio), but it’s patchy.
20. What’s the cost of a Chopta tour package?
It varies. A basic Chopta tour package from Delhi may start around ₹5,000–₹7,00